Kim Bum Cast as Bruce Lee for New Chinese Drama
Kim Bum will be taking on the role of the legendary Bruce Lee for an upcoming Chinese drama.
The Chinese media has reported on September 29 and 30 that Kim Bum has been casted to portray Bruce Lee for the drama “Yip Man and Bruce Lee,” which will start filming in China this month.
The director and producer of the drama, Pan Xiaotian, said, “Bruce Lee was an international star. People from across the world honored his mentality. Why does a Chinese actor have to be Bruce Lee?”
Chinese media reports that several well-noted actors such as Li Yi Feng, Yang Yang, Huo Jianhua (Wallace Huo), Kevin Cheng, and William Chan were candidates for Kim Bum’s role.
“While I was attending Busan International Film Festival, a friend recommended Kim Bum,” Pan Xiaotian said.
Kim Bum is being introduced in China as a worthy actor who has been nominated for the Rookie of the Year and Most Popular Award from the Baeksang Arts Awards. He has also taken on a big role in a Hong Kong epic movie in the past.
“I love Bruce Lee. I’ve enjoyed his movies since I was young,” Kim Bum said.
His managing agency has also stated he is ready by saying, “Kim Bum is working out every day and collecting information on Bruce Lee for research. He’s ready to successfully play the role of Bruce Lee.”
“Yip Man and Bruce Lee” is co-produced by Jiangxi Television, Yangzhou Television, and Suzhou television. Filming will start in October and crew from Korea will also partially be helping out.